I always thought that Red Pearl and Black Pearl were basically the same flower I think Benfica is different. Just my opinion because actually the only one I have currently is Red Pearl..I'm sure someone else will have the answer for you...

Maria did a thread on the diffeences between the dark reds some time back, maybe you could find it.

Donna

I have red pearl, black pearl, and benefica and can honestly say that benefica was the most amazing DARK blooms. Do a search on the forum and see the photo I posted. Can't get into photobucket right now as I have too many things going on.
Kristi

I have a couple beneficas but I saw an eBay auction that had it listed as the same as black pearl I don't have the latter so I can't compare.

I think that McClure and Zimmerman says they are the same on their site.

I, too, recall a prior thread that discussed the differences between the dark reds. I believe at that time it was determined that what I believe to be my Benfica was indeed something different - though I'll always think of it as the "Benefica" that I bought from S&H before they went out of business.
{{gwi:442133}}From GardenWeb pics

Alana

Here's mine.
Kristi
{{gwi:405459}}

Oh

My

God

All very beautiful...so I think I'll add my Red Peal...just for comparison...

Donna

this was taken 2 years ago..facing the light with no flash..

{{gwi:442134}}

and the same bulb last year...without flash

{{gwi:442135}}

and in the late day sun.. all the color are different , all from the same bulb taken at different times of the day, so who can tell the difference in all these gorgeous, dark reds, I really can't...

{{gwi:442136}}

I think we all need at least one each of them to try this test again (wink).

Hey Guys, I just noticed that the stigma on Kristi's flower is darker colored and I can see some color in Alana's, but not as much. I'll have to look for a picture of my Red Pearl with the stigma open and see if mine is dark also. Nothing earth shattering, I just happened to make the observation...Happy New Year..

Donna

Just checked and my Red Pearl also has a colored stigma...hope that makes your day:-)

{{gwi:442137}}

so a group order of all 3 bulbs for a comparison study is needed.
CHAD alert!
Can we get a group discount?
I just love red.
Tally HO!

I am with you on the 'group discount'! We could do a group "Project" hee hee! But I would like to compare them also with Grand Cru. I was struck with similarities and differences between the 4 varieties. If I could only get my photos to look as dark as it really is!

Mine took a header off the kitchen buffet on Christmas morning so it is down to 3 blooms now but I saved the pollen and dusted it on my only available bloom, Naranja.

I laughed about the colored stigma comment!! Brought back to mind "discussions" about Queen of Hearts and Appleblossom!
;-)
Kristi